public speaking (idea)

Scientific Public Speaking
I have just given a talk in front of some plasma physicists. I can make the following observations.

• Even though I knew all the people in the room, I was still nervous
• I forgot all my carefully rehearsed lines and babbled
• You look desperately for eye contact, someone nodding, smiling or any acknowledgement of audience interest.
• There is always one person who will ask inane questions of every speaker. Treat them harshly.
• When pointing out things on the projector make interesting stabbing motions with the pointer (Zorro-like) or spin it round manically.
• When answering questions pace around a lot and frown
• Everyone always says your talk was great even though you felt no one was listening